Joyful Voices: Salzburg’s Rising Stars of Gospel!
Well, folks, gather ’round! Have you heard about the new choir that’s stirring up excitement in Salzburg? No, it’s not a secret society of sound technicians; it’s the lively ‘Joyful Voices’! Fresh on the scene and ready to take the stage by storm, these enthusiastic singers are gearing up for their debut concerts this November. And let me tell you, the anticipation is palpable!
The Passion Behind the Choir
Susanne Wohlleitner, the chairwoman of this harmonious ensemble, believes that community singing has an electricity that can light up a room—or at least provide enough wattage for a small village! It’s not just about hitting the high notes; it’s about the joy of coming together to belt out some good ol’ gospel tunes. You can practically hear the excitement in her voice:
“We are already full of anticipation and positive excitement and want to convey our own enthusiasm for singing to the audience!”
And why wouldn’t they be excited? After all, singing is a major mood booster. Just look at the choir: they started with humble beginnings and now they’re a powerhouse of 45 singers strong! Talk about growth that’s more impressive than my inability to keep my new year’s resolutions!
From Challenges to a Choir
Wohlleitner reflects on the choir’s journey, which started with heartbreak when their previous choir disbanded. “After that, it was clear to us that we would not go gently into that good night!” she chuckles, even though we all know those dark nights can be pretty dull without a good tune!
Thanks to a “happy coincidence” (which is basically how everyone finds decent Wi-Fi), Wohlleitner discovered Colombian-born Tania Reyes-Vieda, who’s juggling children’s choirs with the grace of a seasoned performer. As it turns out, the chemistry was right, and voilà, a dynamic choir director was born!
Harmonizing Under Gospel & More
The very first rehearsal kicked off in January 2024, themed “Gospel & More,” which sounds like the best buffet line ever. The choir has been meeting weekly at the Lehen Baptist Church, and by the sounds of it, they’ve been practicing with the enthusiasm of a caffeinated choir!
“The journey up to this point has brought us together. Our choir name also fits in with this, which means something like ‘Joyful Voices’. It’s about joy in life, that’s what it’s all about in our songs!”
And let’s be honest, folks; who doesn’t want joy? If their music can bring a tear to your eye, just wait until you see their outfits! Joy isn’t just a feeling; it’s also a fashion statement.
Ready, Set, Perform!
Now, the choir is getting ready to strut their stuff in their first public performance at the “Long Night of the Choirs” event this coming May. And let’s face it, that type of title is just begging for a late-night coffee. Wohlleitner couldn’t have said it better:
“We felt that the spark spread to the audience, which was, of course, a huge confirmation for us as a newly founded choir.”
More Voices, More Joy!
They are still welcoming new members, especially those elusive male voices that seem to be hiding like rare Pokémon. If you find yourself humming along to tunes in the shower, you could be their next superstar! “Come one, come all! No previous experience required, just bring your enthusiasm and maybe some earplugs for the off-key notes!”
The Future Looks Bright
As they gear up for concerts on November 22nd and 23rd at the St. Severin and Gneis parish churches respectively, Wohlleitner dreams even bigger. “Our vision is to expand our concerts and be guests in every district and pass on our enthusiasm for music,” she declares, her eyes sparkling brighter than a choir robe under stage lights.
So, whether you’re a Salzburg local or just passing through, don’t miss your chance to experience the infectious enthusiasm of Joyful Voices. Who knows? You might just leave singing your heart out—preferably on key!
For more updates about Salzburg and its vibrant cultural scene, stay tuned!
The vibrant and still young choir “Joyful Voices” from the historical city of Salzburg is gearing up for the excitement of their inaugural concerts.
SALZBURG. Susanne Wohlleitner, the chairwoman of the Salzburg choir “Joyful Voices,” passionately believes that singing in unison ignites a unique energy among participants. With a dedicated focus on gospel music, this spirited choir, founded nearly a year ago, is set to stage its first two concerts this November.
“We are already full of anticipation and positive excitement and want to convey our own enthusiasm for singing to the audience. Intensive rehearsals are currently underway, and on November 16th, we will also have a workshop where everything will be deepened,”
explains Wohlleitner, who also holds a teaching position at the Musikum in Salzburg.
First rehearsal in January 2024
Wohlleitner acknowledges that the journey to their inaugural concert has not been without its hurdles. “We were members of another choir, which, regrettably, was disbanded. It was clear to me and some colleagues from the beginning that our passion for singing must continue. We then tirelessly worked to manifest our dream,” reflects the resolute chairwoman.
By what she calls a “happy coincidence,” she discovered Tania Reyes-Vieda—a Colombian-born choir director renowned for her work with children’s choirs at the Musikum.
“The chemistry was right from the start, and thus we secured a very vibrant and spirited choir director,”
says Wohlleitner with delight.
The inaugural choir rehearsal took place on January 10th, 2024, under the uplifting theme “Gospel & more.” Since that day, the choir has gathered weekly at the Lehen Baptist Church, each session fueled by enthusiasm and a sense of community. “Our progress has united us as a group, fostering connections that resonate deeply. Our choir name encapsulates this joyous spirit—’Joyful Voices.’ The essence of our songs and attire revolves around celebrating joy in life, and gospel music certainly carries a powerful energy. It’s not uncommon for the soul-stirring lyrics and melodies to bring us to tears,” expresses the choir chairwoman.
Preparation for the first concerts
The choir’s public debut occurred at the “Long Night of the Choirs” in May, an exhilarating experience for all involved.
“We performed in the cathedral choir hall, where we not only shared music but also provided insights about each song. We felt a spark ignite between us and the audience, a substantial affirmation of our efforts as a newly formed choir,”
Wohlleitner recounts with pride.
As time has passed, the number of choir members has seen a remarkable increase. “We started with 20 enthusiastic singers, and we’ve now expanded to a robust group of 45. We warmly welcome new participants; no prior experience is necessary, as our aim is to foster joy in communal singing. We’d particularly love to see more men join us, as we are currently in need of male voices,” she adds with a friendly smile.
Attention is now firmly set on the final preparations for their upcoming concerts on November 22nd at the St. Severin parish church and November 23rd at the Gneis parish church. “Our vision is to continue expanding our concert presence throughout each district, sharing our music enthusiasm with as many people as possible,” says Wohlleitner with hopeful determination.
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**Interview with Susanne Wohlleitner, Chairwoman of Joyful Voices**
*Editor:* Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Susanne Wohlleitner, the charismatic chairwoman of Joyful Voices, Salzburg’s exciting new gospel choir. Susanne, welcome!
*Susanne Wohlleitner:* Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to be here and share our journey.
*Editor:* Let’s dive right in! Joyful Voices is a fresh addition to Salzburg’s cultural scene. What inspired you to form this choir after the disbandment of your previous one?
*Susanne:* Well, for all of us who were part of that previous choir, singing is a passion we couldn’t just let go of. After it ended, we felt this deep urge to keep the music alive. It was clear to us that we wanted to create something new, something that truly reflected our enthusiasm for gospel music.
*Editor:* It’s amazing how you turned a setback into an opportunity. You mentioned Tania Reyes-Vieda, your choir director. How did she come into the picture?
*Susanne:* Oh, it was serendipity at its finest! I discovered her through a fortunate event, and we clicked immediately. Her experience with children’s choirs and her vibrant energy were exactly what we needed to lead our group.
*Editor:* Your first rehearsal was themed “Gospel & More.” Can you tell us how it felt to finally bring everyone together?
*Susanne:* It was electrifying! The very first gathering was filled with enthusiasm and hope. We experienced this wonderful sense of community that just kept growing. Each week, our rehearsals feel like a joyful celebration!
*Editor:* Joyful Voices certainly seems to embody that spirit! Can you share what audiences can expect from your debut concerts this November?
*Susanne:* Expect an explosion of joy and energy! We want to convey our passion for music and create an uplifting atmosphere—one that compels the audience to feel what we feel. And of course, there will be some fantastic outfits to match!
*Editor:* Sounds like a great time! You mentioned that you’re still looking for new members, especially male voices. What do you say to those who might be hesitant to join?
*Susanne:* Come one, come all! No previous experience is necessary, just a love for singing and enthusiasm. We believe every voice matters, and we’re growing together as a family!
*Editor:* What a wonderful invitation! Lastly, what are your hopes for Joyful Voices in the future?
*Susanne:* My dreams are to expand our concert reach and share our enthusiasm with as many people as possible across Salzburg. I envision us inspiring more singers and creating a lasting impact through our music.
*Editor:* Thank you so much for sharing your vision with us today, Susanne! We can’t wait to see Joyful Voices light up the stage!
*Susanne:* Thank you for giving me the opportunity! We hope to see everyone at our concerts this November—let’s celebrate music together!